Sri Lanka recall Dharmasena for ICC Champions Trophy

Sri Lanka have recalled off-spinning all-rounder Kumara Dharmasena for the ICC Champions Trophy next month.

Sri Lanka, who are hosting the 12-team one-day tournament, picked a 14-man squad before the start of the Morocco Cup 2002.

With Sri Lanka playing all their matches at the Premadasa International Stadium, a venue that assists spinners, the selectors have boosted their spin bowling resources.

Dharmasena was selected ahead of fellow off-spinning all-rounder Thilan Samaraweera, who had performed well as Muttiah Muralitharan's replacement during the NatWest triangular series in England.

Dharmasena, 31, is vastly experienced having played 125 ODIs, taking 129 wickets at 35.19.

From the 15-man squad currently playing in Morocco, fast bowlers Buddika Fernando and Chamila Lakshitha Gamage have been left out.

Sri Lanka kick-off the tournament, dubbed the "Mini World Cup," when they take on Pakistan on Sept 12.

Squad: Sanath Jayasuriya (Capt), Marvan Atapattu, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jaywardene, Russel Arnold, Aravinda de Silva, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Upul Chandana, Hasantha Fernando, Chaminda Vaas, Dilhara Fernando, Muttiah Muralitharan, Pulasthi Gunaratne, Kumar Dharmasena